UK Law: Making A Successful Claim Following A Sporting Injury

Recent research reveals that the number of people regularly taking exercise in England continues to grow in the long term. The latest results from Sport England’s ongoing Active People Survey shows, that whilst there has been a marginal drop in the last quarter figures, 6.927m people now exercise at least 3 times a week for 30 minutes or more. This represents an increase of 0.632m across the country since the survey began in 2005.

Unfortunately, with exercise there is always the risk that participants can sustain injuries. Sometimes these injuries can be down to the participant themselves; perhaps throwing themselves into a tackle or overstretching. However, all too often injuries are caused by the recklessness of opponents, faulty equipment or unsuitable facilities. In such instances it is only right that the injured party should be compensated for their injuries. But what is the right procedure to follow to ensure that your personal injury claim is successful?

Cataloguing the incident

Your first step should always be to report the incident to any relevant officials that are present, such as the referee. Where there are no officials present, you should instead inform a member of staff working at the facility. Ensure that a record of the incident is made in the accident book. If you are in too much pain to report that incident yourself, then ask a teammate or someone else who is present to do so for you. In some instances the severity of the injury could mean that you don’t have the presence of mind to even consider reporting the incident at the time. In such cases you should report it is soon as you possibly can – once your injuries have been seen to by a medical professional.

Collecting information

Gather in the details of any witnesses to the event, including name and addresses. Also ask them to complete a written account of what happened as soon as they can. Research shows that over time a witness’ recollection can become hazy, so it is important that they write down their account right away.

Visual evidence

It is wise to use either photographs or a video to make a record of any visual evidence that may be used to support your claim. This could focus on defects of equipment or faults with the facility that contributed to the accident. Alternatively, it could be a visual record of the extent of your injuries, which should also be supported by medical records.

Involving authorities

Where injuries were sustained as a result of a physical assault then it is vital that you report the incident to the police. A crime number will be provided, which can be given to your solicitor in order to help them compile a case on your behalf.

Financial record

If you are successful in your personal injury claim it is likely that any costs incurred as a result of the injury will be compensated for. However, you will be expected to provide evidence of these expenses, so be sure to keep hold of receipts for prescriptions, physiotherapy bills, counselling sessions etc.